Trending Online: How Personas Affect Your Biz and the Bottom Line

One of my favorite blogs is Penelope Trunk. Although I don’t always agree with her advice or perspective, I appreciate Trunk’s ability to be publicly vulnerable without fear of judgment or condemnation.

On her blog, Trunk weaves in advice about career and entrepreneurship with intimate talks on Asberger’s, parental concerns, divorce, sex, and everything in between. Because of her writing style, it feels like I know Penelope just as well as I know one of my friends. That sense of connection is a powerful way to get fans, followers, and customers.

But here’s the thing. Despite feeling like I know Penelope Trunk well, I really don’t know her at all. I know her persona or the aspect of Penelope’s character that she chooses to present online.

The distinction between the person and the persona is significant especially when it comes to online business. Great online personas can create communities and economies. However, if left unchecked, a persona can leave people feeling swindled especially …